James, as the only book of wisdom literature in the New Testament, offers practical teachings for us to follow based on how we are made. It is easy to speak without listening, or to hear without acting.

James speaks of truly living a life of faith, trusting our Lord in the midst of tough times. It is in these times that God is working on us, refining our character as his called out people. As we walk through seasons of suffering together, may we remember well that God remains near to us.

Our suffering reveals God's glory, like a light in a broken jar. Instead of putting our focus on the broken jar, we must see beyond and set our eyes on the things that last.

What does it mean to study the Bible? It is not an end in itself but should point towards God. We are like hungry babies searching for milk to grow in the spirit. It is not a science or history book, but an instructional for how to live a God-honoring life.

What does it mean to share Jesus with someone? A Jesus-like encounter can be as simple as sharing a meal and offering a kind word. God gives us sacred opportunities to reflect his healing love.

Chris shares from the book of Philemon. Commands don't always work as well as appealing to someone in love. Paul goes beyond mere rules directly to the heart. Benediction written and spoken by J. Wakeham.

Though tragedy is hard, it can remind us that we are not sufficient on our own. We need the body and we need Jesus. And if we are a body, then the suffering of one is the suffering of us all.

Sometimes discipleship finds us. It is our "buts" that we are remembered for, because that is where God finds and molds us.

Ecclesia Resident Artist, Scott Erickson, shares about his trip to Liberia.

June 27, 2010 — Chris Seay

Father's Day sermon by Curt Williams, executive director of YouthReach. Benediction by Tommy Gillaspie.